Saudi Roads Authority unveils three Riyadh-Abha routes to boost tourism

The Saudi Roads Authority has announced the availability of three distinct overland routes connecting Riyadh to Abha, made possible by a modern road network that aims to support the tourism sector and facilitate travel between the two regions.

The authority noted that Saudi Arabia’s road network has seen significant development, now spanning over 73,000 kilometers. This progress has earned the Kingdom the top global ranking for road connectivity, according to World Competitiveness Forum reports. The network enhances links between cities and provinces and makes travel easier for all users.

Details of the three routes

The authority explained that the first and fastest route runs from Riyadh through Al-Rayn and Bisha to Abha, covering approximately 882 kilometers, with a travel time of around nine hours.

The second route passes through Wadi Al-Dawasir and Tathlith, stretching about 927 kilometers and taking roughly nine hours and 30 minutes to complete.

The third and longest route starts in Riyadh, passes through Taif and Al-Baha before reaching Abha, with a total distance of about 1,215 kilometers and a journey time of nearly 12 hours and 30 minutes.

Importance of the road network in Asir

The authority emphasized that the Asir region boasts an advanced road network extending over 5,304 kilometers, strengthening its status as a leading tourist destination in the Kingdom. This network supports access for visitors and tourists to the region’s natural and cultural landmarks and heritage villages.

Asir is also known for its unique geographical and cultural diversity, featuring the towering Sarawat Mountains, deep valleys, and fertile plains. The region enjoys mild summer weather and rich vegetation, and is famous for its agricultural communities and heritage villages that embody the values of Arabian hospitality.